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This post is a little late this season, so without further ado, let’s get to it because Autumn has officially begun. Here are my top 13 must haves for Fall and Winter 2012. The items cut across all body types, lifestyles, budgets, fashion personas and age groups. It’s a question of finding the right version of that item that works best for you.

Booties: All outfits can be worn with some form of bootie these days. From jeans, classic pants, cropped pants, jumpsuits and trendy trousers, to dresses, skirts and shorts. An assortment of booties, from casual to dressy, in all sorts of colours, heel heights, patterns, fabrications and styles is THE way to amp up your cold weather wardrobe. Start building a bootie collection.

Trousers: It’s the third trouser season in a row, and the abundance is amazing. Add a few pairs of trousers to your wardrobe, be they classic boot cuts, wide legs, slouchy styles, a baggy silhouette with waist pleats, cigarette pants or harem pants.

Leather: Add a leather (or pleather) piece to your wardrobe, be it a jacket, coat, skirt, pair of pants or shorts, dress or top. A leather trimmed item is just as on trend and a nice substitute if a full leather piece is not your thing. Think ALL colours of leather.

Texture: Faux fur is an easy way to add texture to your outfit. So are items in suede, bouclé knit, houndstooth, tweed, mole skin and waxed denim.

Pattern: Pattern mixing is bigger than ever and judging by what I see on the catwalks for next year, there is no stopping the trend. Think pattern in ALL wardrobe items. If patterned clothing is not your thing, think patterned belts and bags.

Colour: Add colour to that neutral wardrobe in the form of brights, pastels, earth tones, mid tones or jewel tones. We will miss the colour when it’s not as widely available so stock up now.

A Chunky item of Knitwear: Think cables and fisherman’s rib knitwear in pullovers and fast pull-on cardigans. Wear them oversized or in a tailored silhouette.

Something Burgundy: It’s the colour of the season and any wardrobe item in burgundy will count.

Something Metallic: If the sci-fi trendis too crazy, there’s always lurex thread and sequins to use as a substitute.

Something Lace: Lace is a classic, although as a nod to the Baroque trend it’s particularly on trend at the moment. Think lace top, dress, skirt, trousers, shorts, jacket or shoes. If a lace item is over the top, sport a lace trimmed item instead.

Daytime Clutch: You can probably think of 10 bad reasons not to carry a daytime clutch handbag, but I can think of five good ones and will cover them next week. I dare you to sport a daytime clutch.

Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone: Last but not least, try a daring outfit combination, a new colour, a new clothing or footwear style, a new pattern, or an atypical item for your style persona that speaks to you for some reason. Just for fun.

I’ve just ordered a chunky item of knitwear after not wearing chunky knits for 20 years. I have my eye on a pleated rubberized midi skirt to take me out of my comfort zone. And I’ve just bought a multi coloured pullover with a burgundy stripe as my nod to the burgundy trend. If these work out, my items on this list are covered. How about you?

I have a new pair of black booties and some burgundy, but would love to add something lacy and a daytime clutch as well.

If I can find a good source, I’d love a black faux leather motorcycle jacket, and would especially love to wear it with a fancy dress-up skirt if I had an occasion to do so. Does anyone have a shop they’d recommend?

I love it when you post the must-have lists! I have many of these things already and actually have owned some of them them for a few seasons, like a cardigan with a lurex thread knitted in and booties. I’ve bought two burgundy items this autumn. The day time clutch is now under consideration, looking forward to reading your reasons to buy one! I’d also like to buy one more pair of tall ankle boots or booties; to my eye tall boots almost look dated now, what do you think about this? I’m also wondering about trousers with shorter hem lengths, I see them all over now and have bought two inexpensive pairs at H & M. Do you think this shorter length is here to stay or should I avoid buying a more expensive pair (my impression from reading this blog is that you are not very fond of this length anyway)?
Thank you!

Bring it on, baby! I love it–lace, texture, trousers, burgundy (happens to be a good color for me), metallics–everything except Oversize, which wouldn’t work for me, I suspect. I also love booties. Can’t wait to see you wearing your new finds, Angie (rubberized skirt especially)!

Checkmarks beside nearly all of these! Yay. I’m a little light in the pattern department and need a clutch that’s a bit larger if I’m going to clutch it in the daytime, but otherwise, I’m apparently on trend.

I loved this post, Angie-and took a break to check my old and new items to see if can cover your list.

I had 2 booties(high chuncky heels) from last season and just bought a taupe(waving to Suz, of course:-)) suede wedge one-a lot more comfier, and still long for a black suede kitten heel, I think will purchase it this week:-).

Already had a chuncky grey cascade cardi from 2009 or 2010,I can see it wearring me a lot, but have just bought a burnt orange almost burgundy chunky cardi, too.
I have my leather skirt from last winter, but bought a black, long sleeved shift dress with leather pipinng recently-for work.

Also have a fur vest, a copper coloured sequin tank, and 2 ruffle lace embelished front, long sleeve tops from last year (ha, I guess I was a bit fashion forward as the forum not really liked them, then:-)) BUT does lace tights count here, too?(wearing one today with my denim dress and taupe booties:-))

All summer I was on the hunt for some daytime clutches-now I have one in taupe, one in orange and one oversized turquoise(these are rather spring and summer bags)…but I have a grey daytime clutch, with optional chuncky harware- for fall-too. The summer ones were worn already, but have difficulties to adapt the look for fall-I guess I’m not that much out and about, other than to work-where completely unapropiate-as even it’s a good size, but still too small for my everyday stuff….but, see what happens.

The one I still cannot do -is the pattern mixing (I mean about 2 full and differently patterned clothing items) as mixing for accessories, is done already here, too:-)

Oh, I love your lists. Can’t WAIT to see you in a chunky knit! And a pleated rubberized midi? I can’t even picture what that might look like!

I’ve bought 3 pairs of trousers this fall, one of them burgundy, and they are making me very happy! I’m on the hunt for the perfect bookending booties to add to my collection. And I’m loving the patterns, colors, and textures that are out there, and have worked some of that into my new wardrobe purchases as well. I still haven’t converted to leather, although I might consider a pleather jacket, and something lace would have to be “just right” to work with my style…such fun to think about!

Angie I love these posts. They help me to plan ahead and know what I should be keeping my eye out for, for our Autumn /Winter. And I’m excited I already have many of these items/trends in my wardrobe already. Chunky knitwear is a challenge being petite and large busted so I may give that a miss. Burgundy is a not a color I enjoy on myself so question mark against that one. I really need to start using my daytime clutches more and our summer might be a good time to get into the habit. And I’m going to start looking at garments with “stepping out of my comfort zone” in mind.

It seems that there is such a broad range of styles that are “current”. I note that its not one or two cuts of trousers that are in but you have mentioned six different styles of trousers. This is very liberating.

Ooh, I like the sounds of your fall purchases, Angie. I ordered a tunic-length fisherman knit sweater from MK – can’t believe I got it because it sold out on Nordstrom in half a second and somehow came back in my size days later for half a second and I happened to see it. If it works, I’ll be joining you in wearing chunky knit sweaters for the first time in a loooooong time.

Got several of these checked off the list already, and a chunky knit still on the list. Funny thing, the wine skinnies and leather have been on my list for years. Far before the trend caught up. I’ll consider it a happy coincidence. Whereas my peplum top just caught my eye last minute. As for the patterns, I think a dalmatian print belt (if I can ever find one) will be plenty for me
My out of the comfort zone item is the pencil skirt, but in paneled leather – just enough out of my zone but not too much

Really excited about this list as I have some of them, and some that I don’t have are on my wish list – booties is at the top. This list covers lots of the things I’m interested in right now – especially texture and pattern – so I feel very on-trend. I want to say no to the daytime clutch, but suspect that means I’ll have one and be loving it this time next year so perhaps won’t say ‘never’ just yet.

I love these lists, and your new items sound like a lot of fun! I have a good start on many of these items, but here’s what I’d like to work on. I’d like to add more booties and trousers. For trousers, I have wide leg and skinny, but I have yet to find something slouchy fitted that makes me feel fabulous. And I’d love to find a pair of winter white trousers. Those are high on my list. I want to add more texture, pattern, and color. I don’t have anything chunky, and I’d have to think about adding this one. I don’t want to end up looking like a chunk. Adding burgundy or oxblood is high on my list, but I’m not sure about metallic. I have BF jeans and the slouchy skinnies from Sears, but I’d love the right oversized pullover. I’ve got lace covered (skirt and I’m working on a dress right now). Check off leather, too. I really want some daytime clutches, but I’d like them to be a little bigger. Those are harder to find. That leaves something out of my comfort zone. Not sure what this would be, but I’m open!

I love all of these! I find the most frustrating thing about it is actually “finding” the items! I’ve been spending the last while trying to find some booties and having the hardest time–too tall, too wide around the ankle, too expensive… Shoes are so easy to buy, but boots! I guess I need to be patient to find them and the other items on your list. I have to say that I am liking the more over-sized items which I didn’t think I would.

I have many of the items on this list – leather jackets are my favorite toppers, burgundy is one of my favorite colors, and of course I love color and pattern and texture (no faux or real fur for me though). I have a couple pairs of booties but I’d like some more. I have a few metallic items (distressed gold oxfords, a black top w/ gold lurex threads, a silver leather backpack) but I think I might need something really over the top shiny. Maybe a scarf? I’ve got chunky knits and have been acquiring oversized things lately. I have lace trimmed items (and lace tights) but nothing fully lace.

I still have no trousers except for those old “interview pants” that don’t get worn regularly. I am going to try to look for some soon since I’d like to try the trend. After seeing the trousers outfits from you and some of the forum ladies, I’m realizing that there are more trouser styles than just the classic wide-leg trousers (which do not appeal to me at all). If I get trousers that will also cover the out of my comfort zone point!

I’m still not convinced of the daytime clutch. Don’t get me wrong, I love the look, but I don’t see how it is practical for my lifestyle at all. I need my bags to be hands free especially since I commute by foot and public transit and don’t own a car. I also couldn’t use it on work days since it won’t hold all the stuff I need to carry.

Sigrid, I have a harder time liking the cropped lengths of pants. But do believe that they can be worn in a flattering way. I’m just VERY sticky about the look. They are everywhere and even more popular for Spring and Summer 2013.

Deborah, booties in all their incarnations are the biggest footwear trend on the planet.

We’ll talk again in a few months to see how you’re doing with this list!

Oh hurrah, I’ve been looking forward to this post for ages…and now I’m extra pleased because it’s reassured me about my limited shopping choices to date!
1. Footwear remains my main wardrobe gap, but I do want to find a non-black pair of relatively low-vamped booties, maybe in an animal print or metallic. The search is on.
2. Knowing it was a pants season, I began stocking up to get away from the skirts and dresses that dominated my look last year.
3. Leather: that said, I couldn’t resist a new pencil skirt with pleather panels, and I adore it. My leather moto isn’t about to retire, either.
4. Texture: This is mea we’re talking about, so we’re all set there. I still have a tweed jacket, and have begun making the transition to woven autumn/winter tops. Enter more silky fabrics, which is never a bad thing. Maybe I should get my velvet jacket taken in, too.
5. Pattern mixing: I’m working on it. Owning a snakeskin bag should help some, but I’m branching out with the addition of some subtly patterned bottoms and potentially footwear too. Loads of my tops are patterned, so we’re set there.
6. Colour: Again, this is me. So no problem.
7. Chunky knitwear: One of my favourite sweaters has a great textural cableknit cowlneck. it’s in a fun fuchsia colour and will surely get some wear.
8. Burgundy: I’m all over red of all descriptions, so colour me happy about this. maybe I should try and dig out an old burgundy handbag I think I still own.
9. Metallic: I’d love to. Gotta work on that one, though.
10. Oversized: Embracing roomier blouses has been liberating, if poorly timed in terms of embracing my evolving new shape.
11. Lace: Have a lace top that I adore and a lace dress that can come out to play if needed.
12. Daytime clutch: I’ll wait for your post to be convinced of that one.
13. Out of comfort zone: One of my few new purchases killed 3 birds with one stone: red jeans added to my pant collection while giving me a new item in a seasonal hew and…pushing my comfort zone.

Thank you as always for a great list, Angie! It’s so helpful to have a reliable set of eyes parce the overwhelming amount of style information out there and bring us all only the best.

Love your must haves!
Booties – Not yet but I know they are big this season!
Leather – check (grey and navy leather jackets)
Texture – not sure, I have faux fur vest, but I’m wearing them for almost 3 winters and this season, I’m tired of them!
Pattern – stripe and leopard
Colour – red, navy, cobalt blue and a lot of emeral green!
Chunky knitwear – No, our climate is not that cold
Burgundy – I have a dress and a jacket
Metallic – I’m excited because I bought on sale for 19€ a fab pair of gold oxfords! Oversized – An oversize top
Lace – I have two white lace blouses
Daytime clutch – not yet
Out of comfort zone – my boots, the gold oxfords!

It’s so helpful for you to put together a shopping list for us, Angie!

I’m in pretty good shape but looks like I need:

1) Texture, would love to find a tweed blazer.

2) Chunky knit, I bought a sweater last year I didn’t wear much, will have to post a picture and see if it meets YFL approval.

3) Metallic, would love to find a top that fits my casual life and fills the bill

4) Lace, perhaps a top or blouse.

5) Daytime clutch, I bought an animal print one last year that I really like but didn’t use much, it hardly even holds my cell phone, but will try to use it anyway.

6) Something out of my comfort zone, well that would probably be baggy bf jeans, but with everyone’s posts wearing them I feel like I’m really missing out. I guess being large on top and then making me look larger on the bottom half just didn’t seem flattering but I’m willing to give it a try, we shall see.

1.Booties-Check. I picked up a black pair during NAS and find the look of booties with tucked in skinnies refreshing. Plus, unlike my tall boots which I can only wear over skinny jeans, the booties also work with my bootcut style bottoms.

2.Trousers-Check. I was sitting this one out for a while. But at the start of this season I finally took the plunge and added a pair of wide leg chinos in black, a pair of black ponte trousers, and started wearing on older pair of straight leg black trousers that were hanging in my closet. Now I need to branch out from so much black!

3.Leather-Check. I have a grey leather jacket with half knit/half leather arms that I always pull out for fall.

4.Texture-Check. I like to add texture with corduroy and tweed best. I’ve been hunting for a replacement blazer for a while now.

5.Pattern-Small check. Not much pattern in my closet at the moment. Especially bolder patterns. But I do have stripes and dots.

6.Color-Carry over check from summer. I have a green colored blazer and my one pair of non black bottoms (that are also not jeans) is a green pair of twill trousers I’m sporting right on into fall.

7.A Chunky item of Knitwear-Check. I have the hi low zip back sweater from NAS that can count for here. And I always enjoy sporting sweatercoats at this time of year.

13.Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone-Check. The poncho from 10 above, and a ikat printed boyfriend cardigan, both outside my comfort zone. And quickly becoming workhorse pieces of the season. Probably because they are so different from my usual style. It’s fun to wear something “new.”

I’m always surprised when I breakdown these lists how many checks I already have in my closet!

Your seasonal must-haves are favorite posts for planning and purging the closet for the season. I’ve got at least one item for most of your list but want to save my money for a great leather skirt or sheathe dress and something in lace. And I don’t have a daytime clutch yet.
I’ve been pondering what to try out of my comfort zone. Trousers are always a challenge unless baggy bottomed trousers are in style. Oversized and chunky are scarey for getting them right on a smallish frame and in a way that addresses my dressy tendencies. I’ve been considering dark red (or some other color) trousers as a shopping and styling challenge out of my comfort zone.
This post adds to the fashion fun. Love it!

I love lists. I’ve got a good start on most of these, and with the exception of the daytime clutch (I need hands free) I will fill each of these somehow (or already have)
Booties – I have black, brown, and tan. Would love to add my burgundy here or a metallic!
Leather – found a great knit and pleather jacket at TJ Maxx the other day
Texture – I have a few faux fur leopard items already and am searching to add lots of tweed this season.
Pattern – I have lots of leopard and stripes already, added am exaggerated houndstooth print MK skirt last week
Colour – I might add some blush after seeing yesterdays post
Chunky knitwear – I have some ancient sweaters that will fill this
Burgundy – I have a schoolboy swacket and a patent purse. I would like to add a shoe , maybe patent heeled loafer?
Metallic – All over this (Magpie me)
Oversized – BF jeans
Lace – I would love a skirt or dress. I have a few tops
Daytime clutch – no thanks
Out of comfort zone – still thinking about this. I really hate assymetry (for me) but might try a softer moto with assymetrical zip

I love this list (especially since I already have most of the items on it). I have burgundy jeans (well, merlot but it looks like burgundy), a burgundy cardigan, a chunky open cardigan from last years NAS etc. Lots of pattern in my wardrobe, always, and some trousers too.

I would love to see more information on how to wear booties since I just bought my first pair and am already resorting to simply wearing them under bootcuts (sort of defeats the purpose of buying interesting booties). I have tried pairing them with skirts or skinny/sleek pants and none of it looks right (perhaps because all my skirts are pencil skirts and the pants are not narrow enough at the ankle).

1. Booties: I have two pairs, black and brownish gray and want a nude color.
2. Trousers: I have several pair that i did not wear last year. Time to dig them out.
3. Leather: I can also dig out my brown leather blazer.
4. Texture: I have several pairs of calf hair shoes. Does this count?
5. Pattern: I ususally wear patern in my tops but saw some cute patterned skinnies.
6. Colour: I never have a problem with color. Well maybe too much.
7. A Chunky item of Knitwear: Oh, I do not think I can do this again. Makes me look too blimpish.
8. Something Burgundy: Burgandy is one of my closet staples. Love this color!
9. Something Metallic: Another one I hesitate with. Too much like my mom, haha.
10. Something Oversized: A closet staple since the Flash Dance days.
11. Something Lace: Bought two lace tops last month.
12. Daytime Clutch: Unable to do this since I walk with a crutch.
13. Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone: Something metallic or chunky? I do not know.

Love these lists! I’ve been searching for the perfect off-white fisherman cardie and pullover for the last few weeks. Haven’t found them yet but at least now I feel my search is justified! (May “settle” for the LL Bean versions…I want the classic “old school” versions, though, and the Bean’s don’t seem quite chunky enough.)

I love these list posts, so much fun. I have most of the items.
If there are studs on an item, does it count as metallic?
The slouchy fit falls outside my style persona so I’ll probilly sit that one out but never say never.
I’d leave a clutch somewhere but I’m looking forward to the reasons to carry post and I cant wait to see that skirt.
The item out of my comfort zone would be the peplum. They fit my style persona so I should like them but I just dont. Last time I tried one on another shopper told me how cute it was but every time I see one the theme from the Jetons pops into my head. Just cant help myself.
Overall I’m really excited about this seaon. I’ve been craving texture all year and I’m lovin all the patterned bottoms. Well I’m off to look at a houndstooth moto.

I’ve bought an oversized cardigan (didn’t know it’s trendy). Actually it’s not too oversized. Because of my problem belly zone I have to wear most jackets and all the cardigans unbuttoned. But this new item can be buttoned up without showing any bad curves on my figure. Surprising.

I wore a black pencil skirt, black tights and black flats yesterday and the outfit looked okay, but I knew…the right booties, maybe suede, maybe with a few studs, or something edgy, is the thing that would show I was aware that we were actually in the current decade. I’m aiming for some that are pretty low –both heel and the vamp/shaft–so distinctly not an ankle boot, but still look like a bootie and not a loafer or flat or whatever. I have fussy feet and narrow heels and so it’s a challenge, but likely easier than a “pump” because there can be more support and cushioning in the right bootie, I hope. I really need to be able wear them at least some days at work.

Booties: I have three pairs from last year (same style, different color). I’m not feeling them anymore. Maybe because I’m working in *the big city* now, and they’re RATE.

Trousers: These are a staple for me, but I got two pairs at Gap recently (camel and black – ya, not the biggest selection of colors). I think these fit a little better than my Express trousers are fitting me these days.

Leather: Got a short, fake leather skirt from Target. It’s fairly short, but I wore it into the office with sweater tights and I think it was acceptable.

Texture: Ok. Nothing here. Time to dive into the winter bins and see what’s left after the many purges.

Pattern: Hmm. I’m making my tops do all the lifting when it comes to pattern. I would probably benefit from some patterned bottoms that aren’t jeans. I definitely want red plaid trousers. Definitely.

A Chunky item of Knitwear: Probably ok on this front, unless I wanted something that could come to the office.

Something Burgundy: My Rachel Zoe trousers will have to carry the weight when it comes to burgundy. I used to have more burgundy, but a lot has been lost in purging.

Something Metallic: I go ghetto when I think metallic, which is not what I want. So, I’m not sure how to do this.

Something Oversized: I have a long drapey blouse from Target’s new designer round that might qualify. Maybe I need to brush up on this look.

Something Lace: I’m looking! I’m looking!

Daytime Clutch: I think I need more exposition on/explanation of daytime clutches. I’m traveling pretty light these days, but it would still have to big enough for me to carry an 8×11″ notebook…

Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone: That might be the short leather skirt. Or lace. Sometimes these things seem like too much fun to me, for the office. I’m not sure what else is outside my comfort zone. I mean, I have worn a poufy prom gown on a date to play miniature golf. LOL.

Oh love this list – especially when I can add so many checks!
In fact – I’ve really got it all going on (for once – with a bit of a caveat…I’ am all about a small handbag. Many of my handbags can double as clutches if I remove the shoulder strap – they fold over (as long as I don’t overstuff them). There’s probably a technical name for this kind of handbag…

Oh I love this list! And I’m pleased to know that I have most of the items on it…

Booties – yes, several pairs
Leather – yes, a black vest. I would like a jacket too but I haven’t yet found one that works for me.
Texture – yes, the leather vest reverses to mink. Plus a new boucle jacket.
Pattern – yes several in tops. I did try to find trousers in a small houndstooth or check but wasn’t successful. And I think I have plenty of bottoms now.
Colour – red, emerald, mustard and purple
Chunky knitwear – this is a hole for me. Maybe something long to wear with leggings or skinnies.
Burgundy – yes, trousers
Metallic – another hole, clothing wise. I do have metallic purses.
Oversized – yes, a few tops plus BF jeans
Lace – I don’t have this but I’m not sure it’s a hole for me. It might have to become an out of comfort zone look!
Daytime clutch – yes, I have at least two that work well for daytime- black and a light tan
Out of comfort zone – flat oxfords

Booties – got black ones, and am looking for a pair of either wine/burgundy ones or light beige ones
Trousers – just bought a pair of slim (cigarette?) pants in a red semi-tartan print, love
Leather – check, got my black leather pencil skirts from last year’s NAS
Texture – definitely covered in my skirts (several tweed and houndstooth ones), and a funky gold top in a crinkly texture. I like the coated denim pants trend but probably won’t invest in another pair of casual pants
Pattern – check, houndstooth is my fave and I have that in a skirt, top, and coat; also have plenty of animal print, and now a semi-tartan pair of pants, and my abstract floral print dress I got last year
Color – check, though I ALWAYS like to add more color. Looking for another teal item, and just bought a dress in a muted purple
Chunky knitwear – I’ll probably pass on this one; it’s hard to find non-woolly knitwear and I don’t love this category enough to go out of my way to hunt this down
Burgundy – trying to find either booties or boots in this color. It’s unexpectedly hard! Burgundy doesn’t look great against my skin/overall coloring, so I decided on shoes…
Metallic – check, my gold top. I love this trend and wouldn’t mind adding something else in metallic.
Lace – love it, but don’t have much, just a nude lace shell I use for layering. Almost bought a black lacy top at Forever 21 last week, and will continue to be open to those.
Daytime clutch – love the look but will pass – too fussy for me – I like to be completely hands-free and I need a big purse for all my crapola
Out of my style comfort zone – hm, maybe my new dress with the high/low hemline counts – I didn’t like the look initially and now love it.

In terms of the other items, I have the printed pants, and a midi dress (and am looking for a midi skirt). Will pass on utility jackets, flat oxfords, high top sneakers, slipper flats – although I like all of them on others. Probably no peplum for me either, though that’s one trend that I can imagine trying out on the cheap.

As a brand new blogger, I just love this post and the confidence it gave me that I am well on my way to becoming the fashionista I have been dreaming about. I have been saying for the past few weeks that booties are something I have to start shopping for. Almost everything else, I have well covered. Daytime clutch and oversized look have not been on my horizon. Daytime clutch is now on my list, however with losing over 25lbs and working to lose more, I am not going to embrace that look this season. Working to hard for that! Thanks for the list and chance to evaluate how I am doing!

Love the list also! I only have 3 of the items I got a few pair of trousers that I like, including my 1st ponte knit texture- 2 pr of very fine wale cords, one cute (to me, anyway) chunky knit sweater, which is also a high-low item! Lots of catching up to do, but have to see if we have the $ to do so…..love all the responses to this!

The thing about this list, and the checklists posted, is that although YLF’ers are saying they have a lot of the “same” things, no one actually looks the same in their versions of the items! Even the exact same jacket or dress reads completely differently, to my eye, on different folks with different vibes and accessories. How cool is that?

I think it’s also a reminder that, because of our different body types and fits, we can and should keep looking at a variety of clothing items and brands even if we are intending to get the “same” look as someone who did so with specific items–let’s hear it for “try more things on,” as we might find our perfect tailored, slouchy, or body-con looks in an unexpected places.

Angie, I think that’s one of the great benefits of your outfit formulas (formulae?) because you set a general target, but remind us that the specific elements may be different for each of us (YMMV). Something may be an exact replica or may “evoke” the outfit or style trend in a more subtle way.

Great, useful list. Thanks, Angie! I already have most of those items, so I guess I’m on trend. I’m not sure about having something metallic, though. I’ll have to look for a very subtle metallic, if that’s possible.

What a great list! I’ve already added several things to my wardrobe from the list. I bought my first ever leather jacket and faux leather trimmed pants and skirt during NAS, so that’s covered. I just bought a burgundy colored handbag. I am looking for the right pair of booties to go with dresses, so will continue the search for that. Thanks, Angie!

Autumn is my favourite season, and I’m tremendously enjoying wearing all my new and older fab Fall clothes and accessories. I love your must-have lists, Angie, and am very excited that I have most of them covered (that means I love them all:-). The only things that are missing: chunky knitwear (have my eye on a Zara jumper), something metallic (actively looking around for this, your recent post inspired me tremendously), something lace and a daytime clutch. Trust me, if I actually owned a daytime clutch I’d already been sporting it for the last months, LOVE the look.
Something out of my style comfort zone: hm does my recent WIW with four patterns count?-)

Thanks as always Angie. I found your post on Spring/Summer must haves very helpful. Fortunately I already have some of these items. I will probably skip any that don’t fill a hole or a trendy & will date as I have limited space & budget. I have started to get some of these already & will be posting K/R when I can get hubby to take pics.

1. Booties: I have several now but love boots. No hole here but a definite weakness of mine.
2. Trousers: Not sure yet if it’s a hole but also have to figure out which ones flatter me & suit my style persona & lifestyle.

Pattern: I like patterns but not sure about mixing. I can do it sometimes but in a safe way. Like the colors match or something.

Colour: Bought red booties & pumpkin coat. Have red raincoat & purse.

A Chunky item of Knitwear: Have a chunky cable knit sweater but need to post pics for YLF approval

Something Burgundy: I have burgundy hunter boots & burgundy pashminas & scarves but that is about all I plan to do as it is not my color & I don’t buy trends just because they are trends.

Something Metallic: I have a sequin shell/tunic. If it fills a hole I may buy something else.

Something Oversized: Have some tunic tops does that count? I like being able to hide figure flaws as long as I wear a tailored or body con piece with the oversized piece.

Something Lace: I was given a lace top I will post for YLF approval.

Daytime Clutch: I don’t know how I will fit everything into a daytime clutch for day to day wear but I bought one I can use for special occasions. Daytime needs to accommodate my large sunglasses as well as everything else.

Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone: I will try a peplum top because it is great for my 8 shaped body. It is out of my comfort zone because it doesn’t seem to fit with my mostly casual wardrobe. I could wear it with a pencil skirt but I rarely wear a pencil skirt.
I already own a utility jacket which is an orphan so I will post on YLF for styling suggestions or feedback on what is wrong with it, if anything. I think it is because it is waxed cotton charcoal colored. So it is a winter color but not warm enough for winter.

I’ve been a mum for a few years now (with three under 5) and always struggled with creating casual looks that were stylish. I’ve always looked and felt good dressing up for work but looking good (and not overdressed) at home has been an issue – I just didn’t know what to wear! No use wearing lovely tailored black pants when you’re clearing away breakfast or playing with lego on the floor! Now, thanks for your blog, I’ve got more confident and more ideas about what I can wear – YEAH! I’m also making a point of going out of the house until I’m ‘feeling fab’! So – thanks!

In relation to this post, wondered if you did one of these for your last spring and summer as I live in Australia and it would be great to see your recommendations for earlier this year. (But – also love seeing what will hit our shops in six months.)

Also – do you have a recommendation for the proportion of tops to bottoms? I always end up having too many bottoms and not enough tops….

The only trend I’ll be sitting out is trousers. Otherwise, I’m covered, though I’m low on the following:

Metallic (unless jewelry counts)
Texture (only one pair of suede booties)
Lace (one lace trimmed item)
Out of comfort zone – not sure what the next thing to add is.

I’m assuming I can count a plum trench and bordeaux jacket as part of the burgundy family, right? I so wish I had bought the perfect pair of burgundy suede booties I saw 6 months ago before they sold out and I knew I’d want them.

Fun list!
Booties – I have new black booties and am looking for a sleeker pair in brown or a color
Trousers – fabulous thrifted brown wide legged trousers waiting for the weather to cool
Leather – jackets AND a faux leather panel skirt from NAS
Texture – I have a tweed skirt from last year, a tweed jacket that’s a few years old I still love and I guess I should break out my grey velvet blazer from several years ago!
Pattern – A few blouses, a few striped layering pieces, and a few scarves. And my new leopard belt.
Colour – teal leather jacket, turquoise skirt on the way, purple button down a few colorful cardis
Chunky knitwear – would love to find a chunky off white cardi or pullover. Meanwhile I have a purple cabled short sleeved cardi from last year’s NAS
Burgundy – not yet – looking for purse or boots …..
Metallic – just some metallic trim on Me Too pumps from NAS. Maybe my silver v neck sleeveless sweater counts. It should be a good layering piece this year to play with.
Oversized – a couple sweaters fall here
Lace – nothing yet. Would have to be tailored enough to work for me.
Daytime clutch – have been on the hunt for a largish one with a wrist strap. A gateway clutch!
Out of comfort zone – tried oxfords with a skirt, will try booties with a skirt. Burgundy is actually out of my comfort zone asnive avoided it for fifteen years!

I could write a love letter to my booties. I cherish my booties, they offer style, comfort and support. So glad to see they are still going strong. Same goes for the oversized top or bottom.

But my favorite part your list is your last item. I will admit that the things that are the most out of my comfort zone are flat footwear. Slipper flats or oxfords. Honestly flats are harder to pull off when you are petite, but I think it would be interesting for me to try. Maybe I can find some with a little heel (1.5″ oxfords out there?).

Booties–currently my favorite form of footwear, in large part because they are so versatile and practical. I would love to add metallic or animal-patterned booties to my collection.
Trousers–I have been sticking to jeans, ponte knits, and jeggings for a couple years now, but I am ready to break out real trousers once again this winter.
Leather–I quite enjoy my leather jackets and am having fun with my leather leggings.
Texture–I always love layering textures. That is a constant for me.
Pattern–it was a big step for me to move pattern from the on top to the bottom. I bought some patterned leggings, but I would love a belt or booties in animal print.
Color–I think I always have some color in my wardrobe in addition to the mted tones and neutrals. Honestly though, the neon sweaters are catching my eye these days
Chunky knitwear–tough to wear with a large bust. It would take a lot of searching to find the right thing, so this is lower on my list.
Burgundy–I would love a burgundy sweater and handbag.
Something metallic–again, I would love this in a bootie. I would also happily wear metallic jeans or a lurex sweater when I am not restricted by maternity dressing.
Something oversize–I really like this trend and I always have some oversized pieces up my sleeve. I like oversize tops with a semi-tuck
Lace–well, currently that would be my lace maternity skirt. I always love lace items though for the texture.
Day time clutch–I think this is number one on my list. It just looks so chic to me at the moment and the sizing won’t be an issue. Can’t wait for your post to see some that are catching your eye.
Outside of my comfort zone–I think this would be my patterned leggings. I still am finding them hard to style though. Moving patterns from top to bottom makes me uncomfortable. It would also be a neon sweater–so attention demanding.
Finally, I feel like fall fashion has come into stores so slowly this year! I wanted to plan ahead, but it seem like only recently are the big selections coming in.

What a great list Angie! This is such fun reading everyone’s comments and seeing what they have and will buy. I need to restrain myself as F/W is not my dominant season. I’ll only purchase classic items that I love and that I’m sure I’ll be able to use for years. I’d like a slim pair of patterned trousers (like a glen plaid) and if I can find a leather metallic clutch for day/night use, that would be fun. Other than that, I’m all set for the season.

I love this list and actually like everything on it. I have most of these covered but I am in need of a real/faux leather. I’d prefer a moto style with a metallic finish I’m not sure what qualifies as something out of my comfort zone. That is to be determined.

Oh, after outfit posts this posts ar my favorites! Thy get you all sorted for a new season and ncourage to try new things to keep your style current and fresh. Thank you, Angie!
Lt’s see how ready I am for the fall / winter:
1. booties – check! Added 3 new pairs sinc last year – this is my favorite type of footwear now, hey make everything look current and good!
2. I have 2 pairs of wide leg, cigarette and loose fitting tapered trousers. Won’t say no to another style if I ever come along one that looks good on me!
3. I have 2 indoor leather jackets, 1 outdor leather jacket and a leather trench. Do I need more? A jacket with a leather trim would be an interesting addition but I would not say no to a nother leather jacket too – winter white or moto style.
4. Texture – I may be lacking in this department. I have one cropped tweed jacket and one knit chanel jacket that looks like tweed but that’s about it. This goes into my shopping list. Thinking of checking out Suz’s waxed moto from H&M…
5. Pattern – mini houndtooth and mini stripe trousers, polka dot dress, striped tops and a blouse, scarves, animal print footwear and belts – I have some pattern but would not mind to add more.
6. Color – I am covered in this department but I cna never have enough colors!
7. Chunky knitwear – no. Always stayed away from those afraid they will make my already big frame even bigger…but my motto now never say never until you try.
8. Burgundy – got burgundy booties. Does my dark red dress counts lik burgundy-sh too?
9. Metallic – not yet. I have a couple of lurex tops and a sequin top however – does it count?
10. Oversized – nothing other than my BF jeans.
11. Lace – teal midi lace skirt
12. Clutch – I have one but I don’t find it useful for day. It is pretty flat so I cannot even fit my sunglasses into it – and this is the must for my day life! Clutch just does not seam practical for my life style – too small for work days and I like to have my hands free for running errands and shopping…I will be eagerly waiting for your post!
13. I have already stepped out of it many times- BF jeans, loose fitting tapered trousers, midi skirts, flat oxfords. I am not afarid to do it if the styl catchs my fancy – with your help of course!
That was a good and useful exercise, thank you Angie!

I can think of a situation where I absolutely will not wear a clutch and that is when I go shopping. That’s the best time to wear a cross body bag. You need two hands for that, whether it’s holding onto the goodies you just bought or using those two hands to push through the sale racks for that hidden gem of a buy.

Ooooh I love these lists! This is the first year I have enough wardrobe basics and essentials in place that I don’t have to spend the bulk of my budget on those things, and can get more “fun” pieces. I also have already have several both fun AND essential items that fit into this list which makes me very happy! In the past I’d been kind of focusing on getting ALL or much of my wardrobe to fit this type of list, when really only one or two in each category should be enough; the benefit of having those essentials in place is that I don’t feel like I NEED to do that any more. So! Let’s see what I have:

1. Booties – Check. Even though I have several pairs, this is a shoe I can’t have enough of here in the PNW I am hoping to find one or two pairs this season, especially to replace some cheaper pairs that are on their way out; definitely need a black pair, and then perhaps something fun.

2 .Trousers – Check. Most of mine are wide-legged and more spring/summer fabrics, though, so I would like to get at least one wool pair with a slim hem opening, whether that means slim overall or something slouchy. Hoping for a charcoal plaid pair and a winter white pair.

3 Leather – Check. Got this WELL covered in boots, shoes, and jackets. I bought the blush biker jacket as my big purchase for the season, and so far am loving it.

4. Texture – Check. I have a very cropped faux fur vest for dresses but would like to get a longer one to wear with pants. Also have plenty of tweed, suede, and various knits across wardrobe items (jackets, skirts, shoes, tops, dresses). Waxed denim intrigues me, but not sure I’d wear it.

5. Pattern – Check. Skirts, tops, and dresses. Could always use more I am especially keen on finding a patterned sweater, at least one patterned blouse, and some fun patterned belts.

6. Color – Check. Another thing I can’t have enough of. I hope to add very few neutrals this season, as I have most of those items covered in my wardrobe already.

7. A Chunky item of Knitwear – Check. My one sweater is VERY chunky, though. I would love to find an oversized cream almost-tunic sweater with a chunky-but-not-crazy-chunky knit.

8. Something Burgundy – Check. Have a turtleneck and a purse. Would like to add something else as it’s a favorite color to wear, but haven’t decided what yet.

9. Something Metallic – Check. I have a tan with gold lurex threads sweater, and a black with silver stripes sweater. Would like a metal capped shoe.

10. Something Oversized – Check. I think I’m quite set in this department!

11. Something Lace – Check. I do have lace tights, but would love to get a lace blouse or a lace skirt or leggings with lace inset panels.

12. Daytime Clutch – MISSING. But boy oh boy do I want to fill this wardrobe hole! And yes, I do consider it a hole

13. Something Out of Your Style Comfort Zone – Have to continue thinking about this one, but at the moment I am considering waxed denim, metallic coated denim, or possibly leather leggings.

Among the other trends: I have gold slipper flats on their way to me, two pairs of printed pants, and oxfords already represented in my wardrobe. Wow! I am doing a LOT better than I’d expected! This has been super helpful in narrowing down my fall shopping list, and I can’t wait to take it down to LA with me

I’m surprised that I can already check off so many of these! What I’d really like to incorporate is something metallic and something burgundy. I don’t have much burgundy in my wardrobe, but think it’s a color that looks good on me.

You can dare all you want, but I just don’t think a clutch will ever have a place in my wardrobe. I just don’t travel that light…ever.